Halifax v Salford: Marshall expecting Devils to strike back

Today’s visitors became the first Super League side to lose to Championship opponents in the Qualifiers when they fell 41-10 at Bradford almost a fortnight ago.

Championship part-timers Halifax, meanwhile, are still awaiting their first win of the Middle 8s at the fourth attempt.

But, ahead of the televised game at The Shay, coach Richard Marshall said: “Bradford did a really good job on Salford and we have to try and replicate a lot of what they did this weekend.

“They really went at Rangi Chase and got him out of the game and then got their offloads going in attack and it turned into a bit of a hiding by the end.

“I think it took Salford a little bit by surprise; they seemed shocked by the physicality of the game Bradford played. It will have hurt them though and I’m not sure we’ll get to play that team.

“I know they’ve been in a lot since that game trying to correct those flaws because they’re in a dangerous position, potentially.”

This is true and star-studded Salford have also, crucially, lost ex-England stand-off Chase as, on Thursday, the club suspended him pending an internal disciplinary investigation.

Marshall, whose side lost to Championship rivals Sheffield Eagles last time out, said: “They’re a good side with some really outstanding players but they’re in this position because they’ve not been consistent enough.

“They beat Wakefield, hammered Leigh then didn’t really perform against Bradford. We need to put pressure on them and see where it gets us.”

Halifax are without winger Gareth Potts (shoulder) and Tommy Saxton (dead leg) is doubtful so Jake Eccleston, Connor Robinson and rookie Joe Martin could all come in.